Raising eco-friendly children is less complicated than it once was. From very early ages, today's kids are exposed to environmental topics and how they can do their part to maintain and protect the planet's resources. Between activities at daycare and lessons at school to information they receive from educational television programming, some kids are taking their own environmental initiatives - and involving their parents along the way.

Environmentally friendly ideals are now permeating all aspects of daily living. Many people want to take the concept further and ensure their nuptials -- and subsequent reception -- are good for the planet as well.

Although there are no firm statistics on the number of green weddings being held each year, emerging trends point to the growing interest in eco-conscious weddings. Individuals who already do their best to recycle, reuse and reduce want to employ those same values on their wedding day.

The winter season is right around the corner, soon to usher in cold temperatures, snow and ice for many people across the country. There are plenty of people who revel in the idea of frolicking over snow-capped hills or skating on a frozen pond, but many others hope winter passss them by rather quickly.

All across North America, home builders tend to agree that the better real estate investments -- for both the occupant and for future re-sale value -- may be best served by a whole new approach to construction.